Square-Enix announces Lightning Returns: Final Fantasy XIII

Unsatisfied with how Final Fantasy XIII-2 ended without any clear conclusion for Lightning? Not to worry, Square Enix that there will be a third and final (hopefully?) game for the Final Fantasy XIII series unimaginatively named “Lightning Returns: Final Fantasy XIII.”

So aside from conclusion to Lightning’s story, what can we expect from the next Final Fantasy XIII installment? According to producer Yoshinori Kitase, Lightning Returns: Final Fantasy XIII will feature “a new gameplay system.” This new gameplay system is purportedly complemented by an exhaustive customization on Lightning.

According to a pre-recorded presentation shown at PAX “This is the most customization you’ll be able to do with a Final Fantasy character.” Her abilities will change based on the weapons and armor she equips and the game gives the player more control over Lightning’s actions like jumping, hang off ledges, duck, and hide behind cover — here’s hoping that Square didn’t turn the next Final Fantasy XIII game into an action-oriented game *shudders*

Square Enix said Lightning Returns: Final Fantasy XIII will come to PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360 in 2013. Additional details are expected in a gameplay video to follow.